Snowball Meltaways
Delightful meltaway cookies with a nutty pecan flavor, coated in powdered sugar. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, appealing to those who love buttery, sweet treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (121°C).
- Mix shortening, butter, powdered sugar, water, vanilla, and flour until well combined.
- Stir in finely chopped pecans.
- Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- While hot, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using coconut oil instead of shortening. You can also substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired. Make sure to chop the nuts finely to ensure they blend well into the dough. If the dough seems too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it comes together. Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier rolling.
Serving Suggestions
These meltaways are delightful as a standalone treat or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with Pearl'S Pound Cake for a dessert platter. For a festive touch, serve them at holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to a cookie exchange.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Snowball Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their powdered sugar coating, consider rolling them in sugar again before serving. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Snowball Meltaways contains roughly 760 calories, with 0g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 62g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Choose a high-quality margarine for the best results. The cookies may be a bit softer, so keep an eye on the baking time.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can lightly dust your hands with flour while shaping the cookies to prevent sticking.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor, but be mindful of the added sweetness. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a nice contrast to the powdered sugar. Just fold them in along with the pecans for a delicious twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).